The now yellowed front page of the weekly El Cerrito Journal for today, Feb. 17, in 1949 offers a snapshot of our community in its post-war growth years. Here are some of the actual headlines from the paper's front page, followed by our brief summaries of the articles:

Dog Right-of-Way Results in Accident

When Gilbert Tolberg of El Cerrito stopped his car to avoid hitting a dog, another car driven by John L. Meeks of El Cerrito crashed into the back of the Tolberg car, causing serious injury to Tolberg's wife, Katherine. The accident occurred Sunday evening at the intersection of Orchid and San Pablo Avenue, according to police. Neither driver was cited.

City Planners OK Extension Of Potrero Ave.

The El Cerrito Planning Commission gave thumbs up to extending Potrero Avenue from Navellier up the hill to Arlington Boulevard. The commission said the much-needed extension would connect the residential area of the hills to the shopping district in the northern part of the city. In related news, there are indications that the City Council favors creating a north-south arterial from Fairmount Avenue to Cutting Boulevard. It's said Richmond Street has unofficial support as the choice.

City Approves Franchise for Key System Co.

For the first time in El Cerrito history, the use of city streets by a transportation company will be paid for through a franchise agreement, at least under a resolution approved the City Council. The panel endorsed in principle an agreement with the Key System Co. that will net the city about $4,600 a year, representing two per cent of the company's gross revenue for its service in El Cerrito. Final action rests with the Key System.

Gum Venders to Aid Lions' Blind Plans

In case you're wondering about all the gum machines at businesses in El Cerrito, they're intended to feed the El Cerrito Lion's Club charitable fund. The club, ever alert to new ways to raise money for its philanthropic endeavors, has contracted with the Fordway company under a plan whereby merchants will pass along the commissions on the sale of Ford Branded Candy gum to the Lions Club, which hopes to use the funds for its work with the blind and for supplying milk to undernourished children.

• Click here for other vignettes of El Cerrito history. You can find some back issues of the El Cerrito Journal at the Shadi Historical Room at City Hall, open to the public on the third Thursday of each month, 4:30-6 p.m.